Bandshell Bark coming to Roxbury Park

Roxbury Park is going to the dogs -- all in the name of supporting preservation of its historic bandshell.

For the sixth year, the Bandshell Bark will allow dog owners to parade their pooches through the typically pet-free park in Johnstown starting at 10 a.m. Sept. 17.

"It's a great time for the dogs as well as the owners," said Eileen Graham, Bandshell Bark founder and event chairwoman. "Even if you don't own a dog, you can still come out for the day."

The Bandshell Bark begins with a stroll down the red carpet and continues along a tranquil, 2.5-mile course, or about four times around the mostly level park. The walk ends with a Finish Line Festival, complete with entertainment, food, refreshments, opportunities to have your dog photographed and vendors.

Prizes will be awarded to participants in three categories: Cutest canine, most manners and "tremendously talented."

"If your dog doesn't have any talent, we'll take stupid human tricks," Graham said with a laugh.

The cost is $20 for registering before Sept. 15, and $25 after or the day of the event. Participants in the dog walk will receive a bandana for their pet. An envelope will be provided for participants to complete at check-in at 10 a.m.

Employee groups, teams and clubs can participate together for a group rate of $100 for six walkers. Registered walkers pledging greater than $35 will receive a Bandshell Bark T-shirt; teams of six that donate more than $200 will receive shirts as well.

"The event is not possible without continued support of the community, businesses and volunteers," said Graham, added that one of the biggest sponsors this year is Northwest Savings Bank.

There are certain guidelines for the walk: No more than two dogs per person; all dogs must be registered; participants younger than 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian; dogs must be kept off the sports fields in the center of the park; only six-foot or shorter, non-retractable leashes are permitted; and all dogs must be licensed, have current identification tags, and up-to-date shots.

"Even though we have a dog park now in Johnstown at Sandyvale, we want to keep up with the Bandshell Bark," Graham said. "It supports a great cause for the preservation of a historic landmark in our area. We want to keep up with the tradition of the Bandshell Bark and keep it going. People enjoy it."